By Ashley Legassic

New program will train BC pharmacists to help deliver care to opioid users

Nov 1, 2018 | 4:11 PM

VICTORIA — A new training program for pharmacists in BC aims to help people with opioid use disorders receive enhanced care.

In a news release, the provincial government states that the BC Pharmacy Association is launching a new opioid agonist treatment (OAT) training program for community pharmacists, who are often on the front line of addressing the opioid crisis.

The program aims to reduce the stigma and expand pharmacists’ knowledge about methadone, naloxone and slow-release oral morphine. The program will also improve the experience and engagement of people receiving treatment.

“This new training program is unlike anything else available to pharmacists in Canada,” says Mental Health and Addictions Minister Judy Darcy. “The program is another important example of how British Columbia is leading the way by taking innovative action to address the overdose crisis and save more lives. It is another step to ensure that people living with addiction receive the services they need to support them along their unique pathway to hope and healing.”

The training will include in-person workshops and an online self-study component. One pharmacist from every pharmacy in the province will be trained by next summer. As part of the phased-in training, the Ministry of Health and the College of Pharmacists of BC will require all pharmacists dispensing OAT medications to complete the training by the end of March 2021.

Boogie The Bridge

Boogie The Bridge Event Information

9h ago

Two and Out

PETERS: The Loop's eviction will show us what happens when a bandage is ripped off a gaping wound

6h ago

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: 'Fairness' is not a word I would use to describe the federal budget

12h ago

The total cost of the project is estimated at roughly $2.2 million, and $950,000 of funding from Health Canada is being provided through its Substance Use and Addictions Program toward the cost. BC’s Health Ministry will probide additional funding of up to roughly $1.1 million through to the end of 2021 to 2022. Remaining costs will be covered through training registration fees.